The French business landscape is undergoing significant transformations as leaders navigate the challenges of geopolitical uncertainty, talent shortages, and the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and sustainability. The latest report from Autodesk, “State of Design & Make,” sheds light on these trends, outlining the current state and future outlook for French enterprises.
General Climate of Uncertainty
In a revealing statistic, 68% of French executives believe that the global landscape is becoming increasingly uncertain, a sentiment that is echoed by 63% of their peers in the EMEA region and 65% globally. Furthermore, confidence among French business leaders has sharply declined, with only 56% feeling prepared to handle unforeseen events, down from 70% in 2024.
This decline in confidence also highlights a disparity based on digital maturity; 66% of companies with advanced digital capabilities report feeling ready, contrasting starkly with only 44% of those that lag behind.
Prioritizing Cost Management and Technology
Cost management emerges as the top strategic priority for 33% of French executives. Notably, the cost barrier remains the leading obstacle to digital transformation, cited by 43% of respondents, a significant rise from 35% in 2024.
For digitally mature organizations, 67% report that digital transformation has enhanced their ability to attract and retain talent, compared to just 56% of less mature firms. These organizations are also more proactive in launching new services and exploring emerging markets, with 71% considering expansion compared to 57% of their less mature counterparts.
AI: Diminishing Trust With Increasing Practical Applications
Despite its growing presence in French enterprises, executives are adopting a more cautious view of AI’s potential. In 2025, 67% believe that AI will enhance their industry—a decline from 75% in 2024—and slightly below the global average of 69%.
Nevertheless, French businesses are still making pragmatic investments in AI, with 65% of leaders planning to increase their budgets for the technology, though this is a decline from 67% in the EMEA region and 68% worldwide. The increase in investment is particularly strong among digitally mature firms, where 73% plan to boost their spending compared to just 55% for less advanced organizations.
This shift illustrates that AI is no passing trend but rather a critical component of a more strategic approach focused on efficiency, sustainability, and resilience.
Human Resources Tensions: A Growing Talent Shortage and Demand for AI Skills
The issue of talent continues to emerge as a central concern for French executives in 2025. A noteworthy 54% of leaders report that a lack of qualified profiles is hampering their growth—an increase from 35% in 2024 and aligning with global trends (58%) and EMEA figures (55%).
In response to this challenge, digitally mature companies are distinguishing themselves with more proactive HR policies. About 68% plan to invest in digital training, compared to 60% of less mature firms. Furthermore, 70% intend to implement continuous training programs, up from 63%.
Recruitment trends reflect the evolving technological landscape: 39% of executives prioritize candidates with AI capabilities, while 34% seek expertise in data security, and 31% value project management skills.
Targeted Yet Slowed Investment Plans
Regarding overall investment, 60% of French firms express intentions to increase spending, a notable decline from 79% in 2024, and 65% consider entering new markets, down from 75%. More digitally mature companies remain optimistic, with 73% planning to increase their investments against 45% of less mature entities.
Sustainability: Strong Commitment With Long-Term Profitability in Mind
Sustainability remains a high priority for French companies, with 97% actively pursuing actions in this area—consistent with figures from 2024. However, only 64% of respondents view sustainability as a short-term lever, down from 75% last year, while 72% see it as a long-term asset, a shift toward a more strategic vision.
Digitally mature firms display higher optimism and commitment, with 72% believing that their sustainability initiatives enhance their talent attractiveness, and 68% planning to increase their sustainable investments compared to 50% amongst less mature organizations.
Additionally, AI is increasingly recognized as a tangible tool for advancing ecological transition; 33% of leaders report using AI to enhance their sustainability performance, a figure that continues to grow from 29% in 2024 and 24% in 2023. This figure climbs to 36% among digitally mature companies compared to 30% for their less advanced counterparts.
Methodology
The “State of Design & Make” report is an annual longitudinal study aimed at leaders in design and manufacturing sectors. It identifies key issues shaping modern businesses and assists executives in making informed strategic decisions about how to set priorities and invest for the future.
In its 2025 edition, Autodesk surveyed 5,594 industry leaders, futurists, and experts from sectors including Architecture, Engineering, Construction, Operations (AECO); Design and Manufacturing (D&M); and Media and Entertainment (S&E). The survey data was categorized by global region: Asia-Pacific (APAC); Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA); and the Americas (AMER). This marks the third year of this longitudinal report series, with data comparisons drawn from the previous two reports.
Peter, a distinguished alumnus of a prominent journalism school in New Jersey, brings a rich tapestry of insights to ‘The Signal’. With a fervent passion for news, society, art, and television, Peter exemplifies the essence of a modern journalist. His keen eye for societal trends and a deep appreciation for the arts infuse his writing with a unique perspective. Peter’s journalistic prowess is evident in his ability to weave complex narratives into engaging stories. His work is not just informative but a journey through the multifaceted world of finance and societal dynamics, reflecting his commitment to excellence in journalism.
